My new engine is burning a quart of oil every four to five hours. Some “experts” are telling me I probably have glazed cylinders and others say just keep on flying it hard and the consumption will drop. Should I be concerned?
Ask Paul
What’s causing the high level of aluminum in this engine’s oil?
What could cause such high levels of aluminum in the oil? Inactivity plays a big role, according to our engines expert Paul McBride.
Why do my engines throw out the first quart of oil?
Through normal operation your engines blow the first quart overboard ending up on the wing and the flaps. I could tell you that this was a design by Lycoming in an effort to prevent corrosion in those areas, but that wouldn’t play very well, so we won’t even go there! Seriously, it’s nothing to worry about, as long as your engine does not have a history of excessive oil consumption.
Ask Paul: How old is this vintage engine?
This 1946 engine may very well be able to be overhauled and put back in service, providing you have the engine logbook.
Does my engine have morning sickness?
Corrosion is probably the biggest contributing factor when it comes to fatigue failures on valve springs.
Ask Paul: Should I buy a plane that hasn’t been flown in two years?
What should I be concerned with when buying an airplane that hasn’t been flown in two years?
Ask Paul: Should we replace the pistons or change oil?
I suspect that the blow-by is caused by glazed cylinder walls. This could possibly be a result of improper break-in, so let’s begin there.
Ask Paul: Can I permanently remove the vacuum pump?
There is no problem removing the vacuum pump drive from the engine — and there are actually two options for you.
Why is my engine backfiring?
I believe you are hearing the pops is because something has a crack in it.